ST. LOUIS (AP) -- It's practically a holiday in St. Louis as the Cardinals play their home opener Monday afternoon.

The Cardinals and the Houston Astros play at 3:15 p.m. before a sellout crowd at Busch Stadium.

Pep rallies and other fan-friendly events are scheduled around the ballpark prior to the game.

Even St. Louis police are feeling the love -- they're waiving parking tickets at most downtown meters before, during and after the game.

The Cardinals are seeking to repeat as National League Central champions.